Dodgers Considering Benching Shohei Ohtani for NLCS Game 3

The Dodgers’ 2–0 deficit against Milwaukee has brought an extraordinary lineup question into the NLCS: could Shohei Ohtani sit out Game 3? In the supplied TNT Sports segment, the studio panel treated that possibility as a sign of how difficult Los Angeles’ position has become.

The decision remains open. MLB reported that manager Dave Roberts would discuss Ohtani’s status with him after Monday’s 7–4 loss. Alden Gonzalez subsequently reported for ESPN, in a story carried by TSN, that the Dodgers intend to keep playing him if he considers himself healthy enough; sitting him would depend on whether his injuries compromise him.

Pedro’s warning extends beyond Ohtani

Pedro Martínez’s strongest reaction concerned the matchup itself. He said the Dodgers looked tired and suggested Milwaukee could finish the series in five games. He contrasted the Brewers’ energy with Los Angeles’ diminished power threat and credited Milwaukee’s pitching with being able to contain an experienced lineup.

That is a series prediction, not a settled outcome. The more persuasive part of his argument is the pitching matchup: changing one hitter cannot by itself solve the problem of creating repeated scoring chances against Milwaukee. His concern invites a broader assessment of the Dodgers’ offense, rather than making Ohtani solely responsible for the deficit.

The panel separates health from a slump

The discussion then shifted toward Ohtani’s knee, his ability to generate a swing from his lower body, and the possibility that a game off could provide a mental reset. The panel also weighed the pressure to use productive hitters while trailing a playoff series. Those are proposed explanations and options; the broadcast cannot establish his medical condition.

The production concern is measurable. MLB lists Ohtani at 3-for-20 this postseason, with no extra-base hits, seven strikeouts and three walks. It also reports lingering right biceps and left knee injuries. That combination makes the conversation understandable, while leaving the actual choice to the club and player.

A return home leaves room for a response

The panel’s counterargument was that Los Angeles had yet to play a home game in this series. That offers a reason to resist declaring the contest finished. It does not erase Milwaukee’s lead, but the next game can still change the pressure on both teams.

If Ohtani sits, MLB identifies Josue De Paula as a likely designated-hitter option. The practical question is whether that change improves the lineup available for one game. For now, the TNT discussion captures the urgency around Los Angeles; the reporting supports a conversation about health and availability, rather than a confirmed benching.

Full TNT segment · MLB report · Gonzalez’s health clarification. The video excerpts use YouTube’s player, which may serve advertisements.